The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe

Name: The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2-4 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

This is The Best Vanilla Cake Recipe you'll ever need, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:07:20.142Z

This vanilla cake is a classic dessert that celebrates the simple yet delicious flavor of vanilla. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, and any special occasion, it's sure to impress your guests!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Rich vanilla flavor that pairs well with any frosting
Perfectly moist, making it a crowd-pleaser for any event

      

The Perfect Base for Any Celebration

This vanilla cake serves as an ideal base for various celebrations, from birthdays to weddings. Its versatility allows it to shine on its own or be dressed up with different frostings and fillings. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a grand event, this cake will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. Its light and fluffy texture makes it perfect for layering, allowing for creative designs and flavors.

Moreover, the simplicity of the ingredients means you can easily customize the cake to suit your theme. Add food coloring to the batter for a fun twist, or incorporate fresh fruits for a seasonal touch. The possibilities are endless, making it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.

Tips for Baking Success

Achieving the perfect vanilla cake requires attention to detail. First, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps to create a smooth batter and ensures even baking. Additionally, accurately measuring your flour is crucial; too much flour can lead to a dense cake. For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife, avoiding the temptation to scoop directly from the bag.

Another tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and airy. Lastly, always check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want your cake to be perfectly baked, not overdone.

Storing and Serving Your Cake

Once your vanilla cake is baked and frosted, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. If you plan to serve it within a few days, simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, especially if your frosting contains dairy.

When it comes to serving, this cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A cup of coffee or tea complements the rich vanilla flavor perfectly. For a festive touch, consider adding seasonal fruit or a scoop of ice cream alongside each slice. With its delightful taste and beautiful presentation, your vanilla cake is bound to be the star of any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Vanilla Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2-4 tablespoons milk

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Frost with your favorite frosting.

Decorate with sprinkles or fresh fruit for an added touch!

Frosting Variations to Try

While the classic buttercream is a fantastic choice, don't hesitate to explore other frosting options to elevate your vanilla cake. Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet cake, while whipped cream frosting provides a light, airy texture that enhances the cake's fluffy nature. For a chocolate lover's dream, consider a rich chocolate ganache that can be drizzled on top for an indulgent look.

Additionally, you can infuse your frostings with various flavors, such as almond or lemon, to create a delightful contrast with the vanilla base. Experimenting with different frostings keeps this cake feeling fresh and exciting, no matter how many times you make it.

Celebrating with Vanilla Cake

This vanilla cake not only tastes amazing but also serves as a canvas for celebrating life's special moments. Whether it's a child's birthday party or an anniversary celebration, this cake adapts to fit the occasion. Decorate it with seasonal fruits or themed decorations to tie in with your party's theme, making it a centerpiece that draws attention.

Consider incorporating personalized messages or designs on the cake to make the celebration even more special. This approach adds a personal touch that guests will appreciate, making your vanilla cake a memorable feature of any event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, using cake flour will result in an even lighter and fluffier cake.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of eggs?

You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture.